Diagnosing threadworms

The typical clue is intense itching around the anus, especially at night, when female worms may move to the skin to lay eggs. Sleep disturbance, irritability and scratching are common concerns. You may see thin, white, moving worms around the anus or on nightwear and bedding.

A clinician may recommend checking the skin at night or using clear adhesive tape first thing in the morning, before washing or using the toilet. The sample can be examined for eggs. A routine stool sample may miss threadworm eggs because they are usually found around the anus rather than mixed through stool.

Note when itching occurs and whether anyone sharing your home has similar symptoms. Bring clear details about sleep disruption, scratching, abdominal discomfort or new bedwetting. Wash hands carefully after using the toilet and before food, keep fingernails short, and wash nightwear and bedding regularly while seeking advice. A GP consultation can confirm the next step and whether household members need assessment or treatment.

Arrange medical advice if the diagnosis is unclear, symptoms continue after recommended treatment, or there is significant skin soreness from scratching. Seek prompt care for severe abdominal pain, vomiting, marked weakness or a child who seems seriously unwell. Itching has several possible causes, so persistent symptoms deserve a fresh assessment.

Ask whether the symptoms fit threadworms, whether a tape test is useful, how to reduce reinfection at home, and whether everyone in the household needs advice. Check when treatment should be repeated, what to do about persistent itching, and which symptoms would suggest another cause.